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Gods and Genes

Gods and Genes

Written by: Amber Sher
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Are you curious about the intersection of health and religion? Wondering how to navigate meaningful conversations as a healthcare provider with your patients as they discuss their own faith with you? Hosted by a certified genetic counselor with a religiously mixed background, Gods and Genes explores how personal beliefs and clinical practices intertwine. We’ll hear a diversity of perspectives: chaplains, spiritual leaders, nonreligious scholars, genetics professionals, and many many more. I hope you’ll stick around for a podcast rooted in curiosity, compassion, and complexity. Whether you’re personally spiritual or simply seeking to better support your patients’ beliefs, Gods and Genes offers thoughtful dialogue, real stories, and a safe space to ask: What are and aren’t we prepared for when talking about the sacred in science?

If you would like to contribute, we'd love to connect! Email your ideas to contact@godsandgenes.com or godsandgenes@gmail.com. Join our mailing list to know all the latest on Gods and Genes or give us a follow on Instagram @GodsandGenes. Want to be part of the show? Fill out our guest interest form.

Gods and Genes is part of Gene Pool Media Network. While waiting for new releases, why not check out over a dozen different science-related podcasts to check out? Logo graphic design is made by Safiah Peeran.

Copyright 2025 All rights reserved. Biological Sciences Hygiene & Healthy Living Physical Illness & Disease Science Spirituality
Episodes
  • #4 Forge Ahead - The Legacy of a Positive Atittude

    #4 Forge Ahead - The Legacy of a Positive Atittude
    Feb 20 2026
    In this episode of Gods and Genes, I learn from Dan Shockley, retired US Navy veteran and advocate for attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis (AFAP) awareness. Dan shares his journey from a surprising diagnosis of AFAP, a rare genetic condition, to becoming an educator and advocate for early detection and awareness. He discusses his military background, the importance of a positive attitude, and his collaboration with medical professionals globally. Dan's story is one of resilience and purpose, as he continues to inspire others through his advocacy and personal experiences. Dan Dry Dock Shockley is a retired Navy, Operation Desert Storm, Enduring and Iraqi Freedom veteran. He’s a 13 year hereditary colon cancer syndrome WARRIOR. Dan was diagnosed with attenuated Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (AFAP), after his first and only colonoscopy at age of 51. He fit outside of the mold for most healthcare providers being asymptomatic and having no family history of colon cancer. Dan underwent successful total-proctocolectomy with a permanent ileostomy and pancreas-sparing duodenectomy resection surgeries and now shares empowering information about navigating life for others who have also had ostomies. He’s spoken to medical students, graduate students, and other training healthcare professionals to be a live-case presentation for what living with AFAP can look like. Dan shares his story with us today and lives by a simple, acronym-based motto: Always Forge Ahead with a Purpose! If you’d like to connect with Dan, check out his Instagram @DanDryDock or LinkedIn at Dan Dry Dock Shockley. Dan shared a meaningful piece with Gods and Genes listeners, this was featured as the tile image of our episode. He also included a short piece to describe this painting. Here’s his work: AWE-INSPIRING FEELING, ATTITUDE OF PEACE (Survivor) The bright orange sun symbolizes my radiant smile and awe-inspiring feeling. The blue, cloudless sky resembles my clear mind and attitude of peace, The grey horizon is in honor of my 22 year journey in the Navy onboard 7 ships, The two sea birds reflect freedom of flight looking ahead in life, The palm trees are the Shockley and Wilson families, The coconut on the tree to the left represents my AFAP diagnosis The root of the tree on the right side of the island symbolizes my gene mutation APC. The sand resembles that of an island. Many diagnosed with a medical condition feel isolated like an island. My representation is to reflect the opposite. Even though diagnosed with a rare condition I have the ability to overcome adversity and be a source of inspiration and encouragement for others. In other words, having the ability of taking a what could be considered a negative experience and turning it into a positive opportunity. The left side of the island has an anchor which was washed up on the shore and half embedded in the sand. This reflects several things. First, at times in life we may feel as if we are washed up on the shores of life. Second, it has been said not to build on sand rather build on solid ground in order to have a strong foothold. Third, the anchor looks like the letter “J” on its side symbolizing my journey and forging ahead with my life having APC. The deep blue ocean surrounding the island resembles several things. One, the world is covered approximately 75% water. Second the human body consists of approximately 75% water. Third, the island is surrounded by water. Fourth, we are surrounded by what I like to refer as the “living water.” That's my story and I am sticking with it! - Dan “Dry Dock” Shockley Be sure to subscribe to Gods and Genes on your podcast app, here on Spotify and here on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss future episodes exploring belief, meaning, and medicine. Episode Topics Discussed: AFAP, FAP, APC, ostomy, genetic condition, advocacy, early detection Relevant Resources: Passages mentioned: Hebrews 11:1 - The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. (2001). Crossway Bibles.James 1:2-4 - The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. (2001). Crossway Bibles. Songs mentioned: LaJoye, S. (2021). Plowshare prayer [Song]. On Gentle songs. Bandcamp. https://spencerlajoye.bandcamp.com/track/plowshare-prayer Connect With Us: Would you like to be a guest on Gods and Genes? Email your pitch to Amber at contact@godsandgenes.com or godsandgenes@gmail.com. We are releasing episodes on a monthly schedule with plans to increase our releases more frequently. We thank you for your patience and hope you continue to support us as we work hard to release content on a regular basis. Do you have challenging questions about faith and health? Join our email subscribers list to submit an anonymous question for our guests. You can find us anywhere you listen to podcasts or at our main website: godsandgenes.podbean.com Gods and Genes is hosted and produced by Amber Sher, MS, CGC. Gods and Genes is a proud member of ...
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    38 mins
  • #3 “Spiritual Genetics” Meeting the Hosts of Autoimmune Adventures

    #3 “Spiritual Genetics” Meeting the Hosts of Autoimmune Adventures
    Jan 17 2026
    Hosts Becky Miller, Stacy Griffin and Alysia Thomas share their inspirational story on how they started their restorative podcast, Autoimmune Adventures, for all autoimmune warriors. In this episode, host Amber Sher, MS, CGC engages with the three sisters behind the Autoimmune Adventures podcast, exploring their personal journeys with autoimmune conditions. The conversation delves into the challenges of diagnosis, the role of faith in their healing processes, and their vision for a holistic autoimmune care center. The sisters share insights on breaking generational trauma and emphasize the importance of listening in healthcare. Their stories highlight the power of community, resilience, and the shared human experience, offering hope and support to fellow autoimmune warriors. Guest Bio: Autoimmune Adventures is a podcast hosted by three sisters—Stacy Griffin, Becky Miller, and Alysia Thomas—who are navigating life with chronic illness and turning their experiences into support, science, and storytelling. Each episode blends lived experience with expert insight, covering everything from functional medicine and nutrition to mindset, self-advocacy, and daily resilience. With a warm, honest, and often humorous approach, the sisters create a space where listeners feel seen, supported, and empowered to live boldly with autoimmunity. Their mission is simple: to share real stories, practical tools, and hope for anyone walking a similar path. Find out more from the Autoimmune Adventures at their website: autoimmuneadventures.com. You can also find them on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@AutoimmuneAdventures , Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/autoimmune-adventures/id1763425785, and many more platforms. Key Takeaways: Faith plays a crucial role in providing comfort and strength during challenging health journeys. The episode explores how science and faith can coexist and support each other in the healing process.Healthcare providers should prioritize listening to patients, as their experiences offer valuable insights.Becky, Stacy, and Alysia share their vision for a comprehensive care center that integrates both traditional and non-traditional medicine for autoimmune conditions.There's a need for increased research and resources dedicated to autoimmune conditions.Maintaining a positive outlook is vital in navigating the complexities of autoimmune conditions. Podcast Resources Autoimmune Adventures Podcast. Episode 67. autoimmuneadventures.com. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/autoimmune-adventures/id1763425785 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AutoimmuneAdventures Relevant Resources: Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.The APA 7th edition format lists authors Pei-Chen Chou, Yu-Chi Huang, and Sebastian Yu as Chou et al., with the journal Life (MDPI), volume 14, issue 1, article number 98. Publication date is January 8, 2024; PMCID: PMC10817356.Shmerling, R. H. (2022, December 1). Genes protective during the Black Death may now be increasing autoimmune disorders. Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/genes-protective-during-the-black-death-may-now-be-increasing-autoimmune-disorders-202212012859. Elsevier. (n.d.) Heterozygote advantage. In ScienceDirect Topics. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/heterozygote-advantage. Be sure to subscribe to Gods and Genes on your podcast app, here on Spotify and here on Apple Podcasts, so you don’t miss future episodes exploring belief, meaning, and medicine. Would you like to be a guest on Gods and Genes? Email your pitch to Amber at contact@godsandgenes.com or godsandgenes@gmail.com. And if you want to stay up to date about our latest projects and releases, subscribe to our email listing (https://forms.gle/JFs4n6u4fimSZkFw6). We are releasing episodes on a monthly schedule with plans to increase our releases more frequently. We thank you for your patience and hope you continue to support us as we work hard to release content on a regular basis. Gods and Genes is a proud affiliate of Gene Pool Media. While you wait, why not check out one of the other incredible podcasts in the Gene Pool Media network (https://www.genepoolmedia.com/) ? With over a dozen different podcasts to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding a podcast in your niche. Gods and Genes is hosted and produced by Amber Sher, MS, CGC . Our logo graphic designer is Safiah Peeran. See what else we are up to on Instagram. Questions/inquiries can be sent to contact@godsandgenes.com or godsandgenes@gmail.com.
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    55 mins
  • #2 Misconceptions about Faith in Healthcare

    #2 Misconceptions about Faith in Healthcare
    Dec 15 2025
    SUMMARY: In this episode of Gods and Genes, host Amber Sher, MS, CGC, delves into the intersection of healthcare and faith, exploring how spirituality can be integrated into medical settings. The episode addresses common misconceptions about chaplaincy, emphasizing the role of chaplains as spiritual care practitioners who provide holistic support beyond end-of-life ceremonies. Amber discusses the importance of understanding patients' spiritual needs and offers strategies for healthcare providers to engage in meaningful conversations about faith. The episode also highlights the significance of religious leaders in patient support systems. If you enjoy what you’re hearing, follow us on Instagram @GodsandGenes. Subscribe, rate, and comment on this podcast as it truly helps other interested individuals find this restorative space (godsandgenes.podbean.com). If you would like to contribute to the podcast, please reach out via email to contact@godsandgenes.com or godsandgenes@gmail.com. Gods and Genes is created, hosted, and produced by me, Amber Sher. Logo Graphic Design is produced by Safiah Peeran. Gods and Genes would not be possible without the incredible support of Gene Pool Media network. Eager for more science-related podcasts to add to your commuting playlist? Check out the shows on Gene Pool Media—there’s over a dozen different shows to choose: https://www.genepoolmedia.com/podcasts CORRECTIONS: @5:31 - “However nearly half of surveyed Americans described being religious or spiritual, but not both.” - This statistic was later verified to be incorrect. It is nearly a third (33%) of Americans who describe being religious or spiritual, but not both, as reported by the Pew Research Center in 2023. I apologize for the inconvenience this may cause. RESOURCES: Sialidosis Information Cure Sialidosis. www.curesialidosis.org. Click here to donate. National Organization for Rare Disorders. (2016, May 27). Sialidosis. NORD | Rare Disease Database. https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/sialidosis/. Featured Paper Richeimer, N., Wilson, K., Petrasek, A., & Weiner, J. (2023). Emunas Chachamim (faith in the sages): A prenatal genetic counseling needs assessment of Orthodox Jewish clergy in Los Angeles. Journal of Genetic Counseling, jgc4.1816. https://doi.org/10.1002/jgc4.1816. Faith in Healthcare Pew Research Center. (2023, December 7). Spirituality among Americans. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2023/12/07/spirituality-among-americans/. Anandarajah, G., & Hight, E. (2001). Spirituality and medical practice: Using the HOPE questions as a practical tool for spiritual assessment. American Family Physician, 63(1), 81–89. Association of Professional Chaplains. (n.d.). Association of Professional Chaplains. https://www.apchaplains.org/. Best, M., Butow, P., & Olver, I. (2015). Do patients want doctors to talk about spirituality? A systematic literature review. Patient Education and Counseling, 98(11), 1320–1328. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2015.04.017. Earl, B. S. W., Klee, A., Edens, E. L., Cooke, J. D., Heikkila, H., & Grau, L. E. (2022). Healthcare Providers’ Perceptions about the Role of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy Services in Substance Use Outpatient Treatment. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(15), 9441. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159441. London Health Sciences Centre. (2025, October 21). Truths and misconceptions: Spiritual care. https://www.lhsc.on.ca/news/truths-and-misconceptions-spiritual-care. Puchalski, C. M., Vitillo, R., Hull, S. K., & Reller, N. (2014). Improving the Spiritual Dimension of Whole Person Care: Reaching National and International Consensus. Journal of Palliative Medicine, 17(6), 642–656. https://doi.org/10.1089/jpm.2014.9427. Sagaser, K. G., Shahrukh Hashmi, S., Carter, R. D., Lemons, J., Mendez‐Figueroa, H., Nassef, S., Peery, B., & Singletary, C. N. (2016). Spiritual Exploration in the Prenatal Genetic Counseling Session. Journal of Genetic Counseling, 25(5), 923–935. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10897-015-9920-y. Skinner, M., Mason, S., & Cockling, N. (2022). How Do Healthcare Chaplaincy Spiritual Care Interventions Support Adults’ Mental Health by Integrating Health and Social Care?: A Review of Primary Research Studies Published in English 2010–2019. Health and Social Care Chaplaincy, 10(1), 27–49. https://doi.org/10.1558/hscc.20588 Thompson, A. B., Cragun, D., Sumerau, J. E., Cragun, R. T., De Gifis, V., & Trepanier, A. (2016). “Be Prepared if I Bring It Up:” Patients’ Perceptions of the Utility of Religious and Spiritual Discussion During Genetic Counseling. Journal of Genetic Counseling, 25(5), 945–956. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10897-015-9922-9.
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    28 mins
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